Buffalo Sabres hire Brian Galivan as director of performance to boost player development

The Buffalo Sabres made a significant move on Friday, May 9, 2025, by bringing aboard Brian Galivan as the team's new director of performance. Galivan joins the Sabres after six solid years with USA Hockey. He was most recently the director of sports science for the U.S. National Team Development Program. He's currently serving as the performance coach for the U.S.men's national team at the IIHF World Championship.Brian Galivan was among the most respected strength and conditioning coaches in the hockey world. With his efforts for USA Hockey, he helped lead players from junior ranks to the NHL. He worked with 84 drafted NHL players and 33 who made it to the NHL. He also served on the training staff for Team USA's gold medal teams at the 2021, 2024, and 2025 IIHF World Junior Championships.Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams applauded Brian Galivan’s work and mentioned he's precisely the sort of leader the organization requires. "Brian has been a trusted resource for hockey players from the junior levels through the NHL level for years and as we continue to make changes this offseason, we’re lucky to be able to add somebody with such a strong body of work to our organization," Adams stated.Before joining USA Hockey, Brian Galivan started GVN Performance with his wife and brother. The business began in 2008 and expanded to four locations. It became one of the best training centers for Olympic and professional athletes across numerous sports. Brian Galivan employed advanced techniques and emphasized improving every athlete in a smart, safe manner.Brian Galivan says he’s thrilled to join the Sabres. “Building the sports science department at NTDP and helping shape the culture there has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” he said. The Sabres are making significant staffing changes in an active offseason, looking to bring themselves closer to reaching playoff success. As Brian Galivan takes over as head of performance, the team hopes his established practices and experience at the sport's highest levels will keep players healthy, strong, and prepared for the extended season to come.Also Read: Eric Staal Returns To Buffalo Sabres As Special Assistant To GM Kevyn Adams